The new year has brought a new reality to The Plains: Alex Golesh is rebuilding Auburn from the studs up. As the January transfer portal window officially opens, the Tigers are witnessing a historic roster turnover that includes some of the highest-rated recruits in program history.
Sources verified to Iron Bowl History confirm that over 28 scholarship players have entered or intend to enter the NCAA Transfer Portal. This mass departure signals a philosophical shift under Golesh, who was hired on November 30 following a 5-7 season.
The Biggest Names Departing
The list of departures is headlined by the "Freeze Five" era recruits who were meant to satisfy the future of the program.
- Cam Coleman (WR): The 5-star crown jewel of the 2024 class. Coleman showed flashes of brilliance as a freshman but is reportedly seeking a more established offensive system.
- Deuce Knight (QB): The highly-touted 2025 quarterback flip from Notre Dame never took a meaningful snap. His departure leaves the QB room dangerously thin entering spring.
- Xavier Chaplin (OT): A multi-year starter on the offensive line, his exit is perhaps the most damaging to immediate field readiness.
- Perry Thompson (WR): Another elite receiver talent looking for a fresh start.
Golesh's Philosophy
"We are going to build this with people who want to be at Auburn, and who fit the tempo and standard we are implementing. We aren't begging anyone to stay. We are recruiting the ones who want to work."
— Alex Golesh, Introductory Press Conference
What It Means for 2026
This level of churn—"The Great Reset"—is becoming common for new coaches in the portal era (see: Deion Sanders at Colorado, Lane Kiffin at Ole Miss). Golesh is clearing cap space, so to speak.
The immediate priority now shifts to inbound transfers. Auburn has already been linked to several offensive linemen and defensive backs in the portal. With nearly 30 scholarship spots now open, expect Golesh to be aggressive in bringing in veterans to plug the massive holes left by today's news.